France’s Dramatic Win Over Egypt
Jean-Philippe Mateta shone as France defeated Egypt 3-1 after extra time on Monday, securing a place in the Paris Olympic 2024 Match men’s football final against Spain. The match, held in Lyon, saw France overcome a deficit to reach their first final since 1984.
Egypt Takes the Lead
Despite dominating early, France fell behind when Mahmoud Saber scored for Egypt just after the hour mark. The hosts, coached by Thierry Henry, faced the possibility of elimination until Crystal Palace striker Mateta equalized late in the game, forcing extra time.
France’s Comeback
In extra time, Mateta headed France into the lead after Egypt’s Omar Fayed received a red card. Michael Olise sealed the victory in the 108th minute, setting up a final clash with Spain at the Parc des Princes in Paris Olympic 2024 Match.
Henry expressed his excitement, saying, “When you see France picking up medals all over the place, you say to yourself it is up to us now to not let everyone down. Now we will see what color we get, but honestly I am living a dream here and I don’t want to wake up.”
Key Moments of the Match
France’s Near Misses
France hit the woodwork multiple times during the match. Loic Bade’s effort late in the first half and captain Alexandre Lacazette’s header off the post were among the close calls. Bade also hit the bar in quick succession, showing France’s relentless push for an equalizer.
The Equalizer
The crucial equalizer came in the 83rd minute, with Olise cutting through the defense and setting up Mateta to finish. France’s hopes of winning before extra time were dashed when a penalty appeal was dismissed after a VAR review.
Extra Time Drama
Egypt’s Fayed was sent off in extra time, giving France an advantage. Mateta capitalized on this, heading in his fourth goal of the tournament from a Kiliann Sildillia cross. Olise then scored the third goal, ensuring France’s place in the final.
Spain’s Victory Over Morocco
Spain also secured their place in the final with a 2-1 win over Morocco in Marseille. Substitute Juanlu Sanchez scored the late winner, completing a comeback after Morocco had taken the lead with a Soufiane Rahimi penalty.
Morocco’s Early Lead
Morocco’s Rahimi, the tournament’s top scorer, converted a penalty just before halftime, sending Moroccan fans into a frenzy. However, Spain equalized in the 66th minute through Fermin Lopez, who pounced on a loose ball in the box.
Spain’s Winning Goal
With extra time approaching, Lopez set up Sanchez, who scored in the 85th minute to secure Spain’s victory. Spain’s calm and composed play ensured their place in the final against France.
Bronze Medal Match
Morocco will face Egypt in the bronze medal match on Thursday in Nantes. Both teams will be looking to secure a podium finish and end their Olympic campaigns on a high note.
Looking Ahead
The final between France and Spain promises to be an exciting showdown. France aims to win their second Olympic men’s football gold medal, while Spain seeks to add to their impressive football legacy. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, making the final a must-watch event.
As the Paris Olympic 2024 Match draw to a close, the football final will be a highlight, showcasing the best of international talent and sportsmanship. Fans around the world eagerly await the clash between these two football powerhouses. Stay updated with the latest Olympic 2024 News from IPL365.
